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INTRODUCTION
Fast Ethernet Technology
The growing importance of LANs and the increasing complexity of
desktop computing applications are fueling the need for high
performance networks. 100BASE-T (Fast Ethernet) provides a cost-
effective and high-performance solution for small workgroups,
SMBs (Small to Medium Businesses), and any network supporting
bandwidth-intensive applications. Fast Ethernet technology
operates at 10 times the speed of traditional Ethernet, offering
maximum performance and enhanced capability for existing
Ethernet-based networks.
100Mbps Fast Ethernet is a standard specified by the IEEE 802.3
LAN committee. It is an extension of the 10Mbps Ethernet standard
with the ability to transmit and receive data at 100Mbps, while
maintaining the CSMA/CD Ethernet protocol. Since the 100Mbps
Fast Ethernet is compatible with all other 10Mbps Ethernet
environments, it provides a straightforward upgrade path and takes
advantage of the existing investment in hardware, software, and
personnel training.
Switching Technology
Switching is a cost-effective way of increasing the total network
capacity available to users on a LAN. If an Ethernet network begins
to display symptoms of congestion, low throughput, slow response
times, and high rates of collision, installing a switch to a network
can preserve much or all of the existing network's cabling and
workstation interface card infrastructure, while still greatly
enhancing the throughput for users. A switch is a viable solution
even if demanding applications, such as multimedia production and
video conferencing, are on the horizon. The most promising
techniques, as well as the best return on investment, could well
consist of installing the right mixture of Ethernet switches.